Usually the parents share in the development of such problem (without knowing) by showing their worries and complaints (in front of her child) that he doesn't eat enough. In the majority of cases this child is a doing well with appropriate weight and height for his age and sex.

1. As the rate of growth slows down in older toddlers, they often do start to lose appetite as their nutrition requirements may be slightly decreased, and they start to enforce their independence by voicing their likes and dislikes. It is also important to remember that developing personal tastes and a healthy will are perfectly normal and expected at this age.

4. Forcing the child to eat more than he wants

5. Eating junk food in between meals

What can I do to help my child? 

1. Offering food in an attractive way ( using colored spoons and plates with interesting shapes made especially for kids)

2. Fix the time of your child meals as much as possible

3. Food preferences are developed early in life and once they are established, they are hard to break. Therefore, the earlier you encourage healthy food choices for your child, the better.

4. For a while let your child choose what he eats. Children with decreased appetites usually continue to drink enough fluids.

5. Once you allow your child to be in charge of how much she eats, the unpleasantness at mealtime and your concerns about her health should disappear in a matter of 2 to 4 weeks. Your child's appetite will improve when she becomes older and needs to eat more.

6. Put your child in charge of how much he eats at mealtime.

7. Allow one small snack between meals.

8. Offer more finger foods.

9. Serve small portions of food--less than you think your child will eat.

10. Consider giving your child daily vitamins. (After consultation of your pediatrician)

11. Make meal times pleasant.

12. Avoid conversation about eating.

1. Don't awake the child at night to feed him.

2. Don't offer the child snacks at short intervals ( less than 2 hours) intervals throughout the day.

3. Don't permit snacks that are larger than a regular meal.

4. Don't try to make the child feel guilty

5. Don't threaten your child

6. Some parents force their child to sit in the high chair for long periods of time after the meal has ended.

7. Never pick up your child's spoon or fork trying various ways to get food into his mouth.

When should I call my child's health care provider?

• The poor appetite lasts for more than 1 week.
• Your child is not drinking adequate fluids.
• You have other questions or concerns.